World Series of Poker

E3 2006 First Look Preview

In the
past few years, the pro poker circuit has gotten huge, hitting all kinds
different mediums, from TV to video games. The most successful video game series
in poker has been the World Series of Poker games from Activision. The series
has offered realistic AI and official endorsements from real-life poker pros,
and the next entry is looking to continue this legacy. World Series of Poker
Tournament of Champions is poised to offer up twice the amount of pros as found
in previous versions, even more realistic AI that acts similarly to their
real-life counterparts, and a new story mode. This version is shaping up to be
the most comprehensive entry to the World Series of Poker games yet, and poker
fans should take note: this version hits this fall.

The
game will offer up new AI that reacts realistically according to their real-life
counterparts. The developers stressed that the characters will do things, like
fold a bad hand of cards or bluff, in line with how the actual player would do
it.

There
will be twice the amount of professional players in this game as in the previous
entry. New players like actress/World Series of Poker bracelet holder Jennifer
Tilly will make appearances in the game.

The
most touted new aspect in the game is the new story mode, where you move from a
poker amateur to a champion. You’ll start out by creating a character (even
using your own face should you choose to via face-mapping with a digital
camera). You begin in the amateur circuit, and then come under the tutelage of
famous poker caricature Chris “Jesus” Ferguson, as he gives you support and
pushes you along the way to becoming a poker champion.

This fall, World Series of
Poker: Tournament of Champions will offer poker fans a great blend of realistic
AI and a comprehensive story mode.